Violence Exposure in Childhood and Criminal Activity: Connections and Correlates from Longitudinal Studies

Session Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel

Abstract

Research studies are beginning to explore the long-term adult outcomes as well as psychophysiological effects of children’s exposure to violence, which will be the focus of this panel of experts. The first presenter, Dr. Cathy Spatz Widom, will discuss her new research which examines the later in life outcomes of her original 1989 study population, specific to domestic violence, child abuse perpetration, and adult criminal activity. These findings illuminate the long-term connections between such outcomes and children’s exposure to varied forms of abuse and trauma. The second panelist, Dr. Todd Herrenkohl, will present on findings from his research, which uses data from a longitudinal study of more than 30 years. These data allow for an examination of the long-term, adult outcomes, specifically related to adult engagement in crime and IPV perpetration. Finally, Dr. Patricia Kerig will present preliminary findings from the first wave of a longitudinal study investigating psychophysiological reactivity in the aftermath of trauma exposure within a sample of detained youth. Concluding the panel, Dr. Dara Blachman-Demner, will lead the discussion on the implications and potential intervention efforts possible while taking into account this new deeper understanding that abuse and maltreatment has on a child’s development and long-term outcomes.

Sub Unit

• Area VI: Victimology / 31: Patterns and Trends in Victimization

Individual Presentations

• A Thirty-year Follow-Up on the “Cycle of Violence” - Cathy Spatz Widom, John Jay College of Criminal Justice / CUNY Graduate Center

• Effects of Child Abuse Subtypes and Abuse Chronicity on Adult Crime: A Longitudinal Investigation of Gender Differences and Developmental Pathways - Todd I. Herrenkohl, University of Washington

• Posttraumatic Stress, Psychophysiological Reactivity, and Offending in a Sample of Detained Youth - Patricia K. Kerig, University of Utah

Chair

• Amy G. Leffler, National Institute of Justice

Discussant

• Dara R. Blachman-Demner, National Institute of Justice